The novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19 continues to sweep across the country and, as of April 30, Hamilton County had seen more than 660 confirmed cases resulting in 35 deaths. Nationally, there have been more than 1 million confirmed cases and 63,000 deaths due to COVID-19 in the same time period.

Health experts and public officials have urged precautionary measures, including wearing masks, to slow the spread of the virus. Many Cincinnatians have done so, and it’s a strong recommendation from Gov. Mike DeWine and the Ohio Department of Health to wear one in public as the state moves to slowly reopen businesses.

Some citizens have made their own unique, colorful masks. Others have donned the classic, utilitarian white and blue masks you usually see medical professionals wear.

CityBeat talked to people across a wide array of ages, locations, races and professions who have opted to wear masks about what is foremost on their minds during the historic pandemic. Here are excerpts from those interviews, conducted by Nick Swartsell.